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Council Agenda Preview – 2020-06-16

14 Sunday Jun 2020

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Once again a light agenda. The Closed Session does make note of the French School e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario). Perhaps there was some sort of settlement (or not). In any event the School will be opening at some point in a dedicated section of the mall based on Council’s approval of the School’s rezoning request.

Item 9.1.1 – Closed Meeting Investigation Report is worth noting. Apparently, there was a complaint filed about the Town’s Closed Session procedure for appointments to Boards & Committees. The complaint suggested that this was an item which should be discussed in Open Session. (My sense is that while there is an issue of confidentiality there is also an issue of transparency. Without an explanation of the Town’s deliberation process individuals are not able to properly understand what requirements are preferred and how they might better present their qualifications. A case could be made that the current process favours ‘insiders’ who might have ‘connections’ or non-public insights. I suggest the Town hold a workshop for all potential candidates for any committee so they might better understand the requirements and expectations of the ‘secret session’ selection committee.) FYI – I did not file the complaint. I would not consider sitting on any committee appointed by Council based on how they treated a former head of the Downtown Business Association. Rock the boat and you don’t just get tossed off, you get keel hauled. Here is a section of the report that indicates the Town is not prepared to revise its procedures. Staff likes it the way it is now. The full report is in the agenda package.

Closed Meeting Investigator Nigel Bellchamber released his report to the Clerk on June 2, 2020, and concluded “that the matter subject to this complaint deliberated at the closed session of Town Council on December 18, 2018 fell within the authority of the Municipal Act as one which could be considered in closed session and was appropriately conducted as such.
Mr. Bellchamber indicated that it has been his consistent advice over many years that it could be to the advantage of Council and open local government if candidates were publicly solicited, applications disclosed, and appointments made all in open session of Council. He offered that same advice to the Town of Parry Sound for consideration of future appointments.
It is not however the recommendation of staff to change the process at this time. Candidate submissions often include significant personal information as defined by the Ontario Information and Privacy Commissioner (e.g. work history and education) which is expected to be kept confidential. We might consider the application to sit on a board or committee more akin to a person applying for a job; discussions and decisions of which are kept confidential through the process until final selection is made. It is worth noting that the Investigator does acknowledge the two different approaches by municipalities of putting the material in open or closed meeting as both valid. A search of other Investigator Reports on the same topic consistently finds no fault with a municipality in going into closed meeting to discuss appointments to boards and committees under the reason “personal information about an identifiable individual”.”

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street. There is no summary in the agenda package regarding this meeting beyond the title. Here is what I have found about the meeting from the Town’s website.
The applicant has requested to amend the C1 zone to permit a mixed use commercial and residential building.  Ten residential units are proposed above the main floor commercial space.  Specific exemptions include:
Increasing the maximum height from 10.5 metres to 18 metres;
Reducing the rear yard setback from 6 metres to 3 metres;
Provide an exemption to the cumulative residential floor area cap;
A minimum requirement of ten underground parking; and
Reduce the minimum parking space size from 3 metres by 6 metres to 2.79 metres by 6 metres.
The property’s address is 9 Church Street and is described as Lot 5 on the east side of Church Street, Plan 2. Please see the complete notice attached for additional information including a location map and appeal rights.

Closed Session
b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees, (applications for Fence Viewers);
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Minutes of Settlement – Conseil scolaire public du Nord-Est de l’Ontario).

Public Meeting
2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment Z/20/03 – 9 Church Street.

Correspondence
4.1 – Lori McDonald, Director of Corporate Services/Clerk, Town of Bracebridge. Resolution of support to lobby provincial government for financial assistance to support municipalities in offsetting the financial impact of the COVID-10 pandemic.

Deputations
None

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Closed Meeting Investigation Report.
Resolution
That Council receives the Closed Meeting Investigation Report attached as Schedule A.

9.1.2 – Appointment of Mayor & Council Member as Shareholder Representatives to Lakeland Shareholders.
Resolution
That pursuant to Section 3.7 of the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement, Council of the Town of Parry Sound appoints Mayor Jamie McGarvey, and as alternate, Councillor _____________________________ as Shareholder Representative for purposes of providing any consent or approval required by the Lakeland Shareholders Agreement or by the Business Corporations Act, for the term of Council ending November 30, 2022, or until such time as new members are appointed.

9.1.3 – Delegation to AMO.
Resolution
That Council endorse the list of delegation topics at the AMO 2020 Virtual Conference per the attached report.

9.1.4 – Employee Food Drive.
Resolution
That Council receive the report on the Employee Food Drive for information purposes.

9.2.1 – 2019 Annual Investment Report.
Resolution
That Council accepts the 2019 Annual Investment Report attached as Schedule A, in accordance with Town’s Investment Policy.

9.2.2 – Municipal Modernization Program Project Deliverable Extension.
Resolution
WHEREAS COVID-19 and Provincial Emergency Orders have impacted resources, the supply of services, and the ordinary course of businesses in general NOW THEREFORE IT BE RESOLVED THAT the Council of The Town of Parry Sound hereby requests the Ministry of Municipal Affairs & Housing to extend the deadline for the Third-Party Reviewers Report under the Municipal Modernization Program to March 31st, 2021;
THAT Council requests that the other corresponding reporting deadlines for the Interim Progress Report and the Draft of the Independent Third-Party Reviewer’s Report also be extended, and
THAT Council authorize the CAO to retain the appropriate consulting services to expedite the process and report to Council at a future date for ratification.

9.3.1 – RFQ – Sewer Flushing and Cleaning.
Resolution
That Council accept the quotation from Municipal Sewer Services Inc. in the amount of $30,962.00, HST included, for sewer flushing and cleaning of approximately 7,700 metres of sanitary sewer and camera inspection and georeferencing of approximately 5,800 metres of sanitary sewer, this quotation being the lowest of three (3) quotations received.

9.4.1 – Temporary Patio Permissions for Restaurants During COVID-19.
Resolution
Whereas in response to COVID-19, the Province of Ontario had limited the food and drink industry;
Whereas on June 8, 2020 the Province has reduced these restrictions and is permitting new patios or temporary additions to patios to provide more opportunities to local businesses while protecting health and safety, subject to municipal requirements; and
Whereas the Council for the Town of Parry Sound recognizes the need to support local businesses while protecting human health and safety during COVID-19.
Now Therefore be it Resolved that the Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the Province’s goal of temporarily permitting new and larger patios to assist local restaurants and other licensed establishments until January 1, 2021; and further
that provided any new or expanded patio is on the Licensee’s property, the Town’s Zoning By-law and Site Plan Agreements will not apply to the temporary patio; and further
That any fees be waived for Sidewalk Patio Program until January 1, 2021.

9.5.1 – Establish Municipal Financial Assistance Program per FMC Recommendations.

By-laws
10.2.1 – Claw Back Percentages for 2020 Property Taxes.
By-Law 2020 – 7049
Being a By-law to Specify the “Claw-back Percentages” in Respect of Properties in the Commercial Class for 2020 Taxation Year.

 

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – June 2, 2020

05 Friday Jun 2020

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I have no comments to offer in terms of the items discussed and the decisions taken. I was happy to see that the beaches will be opened this week, albeit unsupervised (3.2.4).

Closed Session
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; (annual performance review of Director of Finance; 6-month probationary review of Director of Public Works)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Contractor work on Town property);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Contractor work on Town property).

Disclosure of Pecuniary Interest and the General Nature Thereof
1.4.1 Councillor Backman declared pecuniary interest on item 9.1.1, as she receives remuneration from FONOM. Councillor Backman did not participate in discussion, nor vote on the item.

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry regarding the Firefighters’ training as instrumental in saving the Beatty building over the weekend, Fire Chief Dave Thompson reported that the Volunteer Firefighters have been working hard recently on training to fight fires in larger and more complex structures. In the past few weeks, the Firefighters responded to three fires in Parry Sound and one in McDougall which is a high number of call outs. With the COVID-19 pandemic, a lot of the practice has been on-line, which the Firefighters have embraced. With respect to the fire on Sunday morning, Chief Thompson reported on the Firefighters excellent work, noting that the fire posed risk, the firefight was very technical, and the firefighters were able to execute and stay safe, supported by McDougall Firefighters, as well as the OPP who evacuated the area, Public Works staff to manage detours, and Waterworks staff who ensured there was sufficient water available.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Keith’s inquiries, Director of Public Works Kearns reported that today staff finished work on the Salt Dock boat launch, installing a ramp and anchor system which will be used going forward with a new dock. In addition. Mr. Kearns reported that Public Works is working at re-integrating Household Hazardous Waste (HHW) into the waste management services starting June 10 and working stage by stage for full integration of all waste management services.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Backman’s inquiry regarding provision of waste receptacles in park areas, Mr. Kearns reported that similar to the phased-in staging of full services at the Waste Transfer Station, services at parks are being phased in, with general maintenance such as grass cutting and clean-up done first. Without the same complement of students this year, staff are looking at how to achieve a similar level of service to that usually provided.

3.2.4 In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry, Mr. Kearns reported that beaches are anticipated to re-open this week, in an unsupervised capacity and with appropriate signage in place.

3.2.5 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry, Mr. Kearns confirmed that electronic waste is not hazardous waste and can deposited at the Waste Transfer Station’s electronic recycling section.

Correspondence
4.1. Lee-Ann Turner. Request to raise the Pride flag during Pride month of June.
Resolution prepared under Other Business for Council’s consideration.

Consent Agenda
8.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey to sit as Past President on AMO Board of Directors.
Resolution 2020 – 051
WHEREAS the immediate past president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is an ex officio member on the AMO Board of Directors and AMO Executive for its next term; and
WHEREAS Mayor Jamie McGarvey is the President of AMO for the current 2018-2020 term,
Now Therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s position as Past President on the AMO Board and Executive for the 2020-2022 term.
Carried

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Post-Pandemic input for growth and prosperity.
In declaring pecuniary interest, Councillor Backman did not participate in discussion nor vote on this item.
Resolution 2020 – 052
That on behalf of the Council of the Town of Parry Sound, Mayor McGarvey includes the four issues identified in this report in a letter to the President of FONOM for presentation to Minister Greg Rickford’s Advisory Council to assist with their mandate of “getting businesses up and running and people back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic is over”.
Carried

9.2.1 – Ontario Regulation 284/09 – Excluded Expenses from the 2020 Budget.
Resolution 2020 – 053
That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2020 budget outlined in the staff Report and Recommendation “Ontario Regulation 284/09”, attached as Schedule “A”, as a requirement of Ontario Regulation 284/09 passed under the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25.
Carried

9.2.2 – Asset Management Plan Progress and Municipal Asset Management Plan Grant Application.
Resolution 2020 – 054
Be it resolved that Council accepts the Asset Management Plan update in accordance with the Town’s Strategic Asset Management Policy and O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure under the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to begin with the condition assessment protocols with Public Sector Digest at a cost of $16,000 (plus HST) in an effort to expedite the advancement of the asset management plan update to strive for completion by July 1st, 2021; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to apply for a grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program for Asset Management Program Development in Parry Sound; and
Be it therefore resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits to conducting the following activities in its proposed project submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program to advance our asset management program:
Risk and Lifecycle Framework Development Levels of Service Framework Development Asset Management Training; and
Be it further resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits an additional $29,800.00 (plus HST) from its budget toward the costs of this initiative.
Carried

9.3.1 – Blue Box Transition Process
Resolution 2020 – 055
WHEREAS reducing the waste we generate and reincorporating valuable resources from our waste stream into new goods can reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) significantly; and
WHEREAS the transition to full producer responsibility for packaging, paper and paper products is critical to reducing waste, improving recycling and driving better economic and environmental processes and outcomes; and
WHEREAS the move to a circular economy is a global movement, and that the transition of Blue Box programs to Full Producer Responsibility would help to expedite this process; and
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound is supportive of a timely, seamless and successful transition of BlueBox programs to full financial and operational responsibility by producers of packaging, paper and paper products;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has requested municipal governments with Blue Box programs provide an indication of the best date to transition our Blue Box program to full producer responsibility.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. That The Town of Parry Sound confirms its wish to transition its Blue Box program to full producer responsibility effective January 2023.
2. That this decision is based on the following rationale:
a) The current waste collection contract, which includes the collection and processing of blue box material expires December 31, 2020 and has been subject to an annual renewal.
b) The Town of Parry Sound is not currently in a position to execute a long term agreement for Blue Box services in the face of this transition; and
3. That this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.
Carried

9.5.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey’s nomination to a seat on OSUM Board of Directors.
Resolution 2020 – 056
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s nomination submission to a seat on the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities (OSUM) Board of Directors for the 2020-2022 term.
Carried

9.6.1 – Request to fly Pride flag for month of June, 2020.
Resolution 2020 – 057
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound approves the flying of the PRIDE flag on the Town Hall municipal flag pole for the month of June, 2020.
Carried

By-laws
10.2.1 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7044
Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2020
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.2.2 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area.
By-law 2020 – 7045
Being a By-law to adopt the estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to strike the tax rate thereon for the year 2020.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.3.1 – Solar Field Former Landfill – Memorandum of Understanding – 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7047
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Bracebridge Generation and Lakeland Holdings Ltd. for the construction of a solar field to offset electrical usage of the Wastewater Treatment Plant.
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

10.4.1 – Deeming By-law – Wehling – 70 Great North Road.
By-law 2020 – 7046
Being a By-law to Deem Certain Lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be Part of a Registered Plan of Subdivision (Wehling – 70 Great North Road).
Passed, Signed and Sealed.

 

Council Agenda Preview – June 2, 2020

31 Sunday May 2020

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There is nothing in the agenda deserving particular comment or analysis. I am a little confused by 9.3.1 Blue Box Transition Process, and don’t understand the eventual outcome that is expected. The solar development at the former landfill site is moving forward – 10.3.1 – Solar Field Former Landfill – Memorandum of Understanding – 2020. There is no listed correspondence or deputations.

Closed Session
That pursuant to Section 239(2) of the Municipal Act, R.S.O. 2001, Chapter 25, as amended, the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound move to a meeting closed to the public in order to address matters pertaining to:
b) personal matter about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees; (annual performance review of Director of Finance; 6-month probationary review of Director of Public Works)
e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board, (Contractor work on Town property);
f) advice that is subject to solicitor-client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose, (Contractor work on Town property).

Consent Agenda
WHEREAS the immediate past president of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO) is an ex officio member on the AMO Board of Directors and AMO Executive for its next term; and
WHEREAS Mayor Jamie McGarvey is the President of AMO for the current 2018-2020 term,
Now Therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s position as Past President on the AMO Board and Executive for the 2020-2022 term.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – COVID-19 Post-Pandemic input for growth and prosperity.
Resolution
That on behalf of the Council of the Town of Parry Sound, Mayor McGarvey includes the four issues identified in this report in a letter to the President of FONOM for presentation to Minister Greg Rickford’s Advisory Council to assist with their mandate of “getting businesses up and running and people back to work after the COVID-19 pandemic is over”.

9.2.1 – Ontario Regulation 284/09 – Excluded Expenses from the 2020 Budget.
Resolution 2020
That Council hereby adopts the compliance report for expenses excluded from the 2020 budget outlined in the staff Report and Recommendation “Ontario Regulation 284/09”, attached as Schedule “A”, as a requirement of Ontario Regulation 284/09 passed under the Municipal Act, 2001, S.O. 2001, c.25

9.2.2 – Asset Management Plan Progress and Municipal Asset Management Plan Grant Application.
Resolution
Be it resolved that Council accepts the Asset Management Plan update in accordance with the Town’s Strategic Asset Management Policy and O. Reg. 588/17: Asset Management Planning for Municipal Infrastructure under the Infrastructure for Jobs and Prosperity Act, 2015; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to begin with the condition assessment protocols with Public Sector Digest at a cost of $16,000 (plus HST) in an effort to expedite the advancement of the asset management plan update to strive for completion by July 1st, 2021; and
Be it resolved that Council directs staff to apply for a grant from the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program for Asset Management Program Development in Parry Sound; and
Be it therefore resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits to conducting the following activities in its proposed project submitted to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities’ Municipal Asset Management Program to advance our asset management program:
Risk and Lifecycle Framework Development Levels of Service Framework Development Asset Management Training; and
Be it further resolved that the Town of Parry Sound commits an additional $29,800.00 (plus HST) from its budget toward the costs of this initiative.

9.3.1 Blue Box Transition Process.
Resolution
WHEREAS reducing the waste we generate and reincorporating valuable resources from our waste stream into new goods can reduce Greenhouse Gases (GHGs) significantly; and
WHEREAS the transition to full producer responsibility for packaging, paper and paper products is critical to reducing waste, improving recycling and driving better economic and environmental processes and outcomes; and
WHEREAS the move to a circular economy is a global movement, and that the transition of Blue Box programs to Full Producer Responsibility would help to expedite this process; and
WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound is supportive of a timely, seamless and successful transition of BlueBox programs to full financial and operational responsibility by producers of packaging, paper and paper products;
AND WHEREAS the Association of Municipalities of Ontario has requested municipal governments with Blue Box programs provide an indication of the best date to transition our Blue Box program to full producer responsibility.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED AS FOLLOWS:
1. That The Town of Parry Sound confirms its wish to transition its Blue Box program to full producer responsibility effective January 2023.
2. That this decision is based on the following rationale:
a) The current waste collection contract, which includes the collection and processing of blue box material expires December 31, 2020 and has been subject to an annual renewal.
b) The Town of Parry Sound is not currently in a position to execute a long term agreement for Blue Box services in the face of this transition; and
3. That this resolution be forwarded to the Association of Municipalities of Ontario and the Ontario Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks.

9.5.1 – Support for Mayor McGarvey’s nomination to a seat on OSUM Board of Directors.
Resolution
That Council for the Town of Parry Sound endorses and supports Mayor Jamie McGarvey’s nomination submission to a seat on the Ontario Small Urban Municipalities (OSUM) Board of Directors for the 2020-2022 term.

By-laws
10.2.1 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7044
Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2020.

10.2.2 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area.
By-law 2020 – 7045
Being a By-law to adopt the estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to strike the tax rate thereon for the year 2020.

10.3.1 – Solar Field Former Landfill – Memorandum of Understanding – 2020.
By-law 2020 – 7047
Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Bracebridge Generation and Lakeland Holdings Ltd. for the construction of a solar field to offset electrical usage of the Wastewater Treatment Plant

10.4.1 – Deeming By-law – Wehling – 70 Great North Road.
By-law 2020 – 7046
Being a By-law to Deem Certain Lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be Part of a Registered Plan of Subdivision (Wehling – 70 Great North Road)

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – March 17, 2020

10 Friday Apr 2020

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Oops – I just found this post in my drafts – I guess I prepared it and forgot to push send.

Move along, there is little to read here. Things unfolded as expected with no significant implications.

Closed Session
c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes; (potential acquisition of property for municipal purposes)

e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board (potential claims regarding issues on private property);

Questions of Staff
3.2.1 – In response to a question from Councillor McCann regarding what steps the public should take when trees blow down in storms, Chief Dave Thompson stated that with regards to incidents affecting the municipality or public safety, residents are encouraged to call 911. This gets the Fire Dept out to the site to secure it and get in the proper resources to remedy the situation which may be for example the Town’s Public Works, or the electrical utility Lakeland.

3.2.2. – In response to Councillors Horne and Keith’s inquiries regarding the potential for offering a grace period or waiving of penalty for late payment of taxes and water and sewer bills by taxpayers and residents having difficulty paying these bills as a result of economic hardship from the COVID-19 shut-down, Director of Finance Stephanie Phillips and CAO Clayton Harris responded that this issue is under consideration and would come back to Council for a decision.

Correspondence
4.1 – Steve Clark, Minister of Municipal Affairs & Housing.
Provincial Policy Statement, 2020.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.2 – Kami Johnson, Administrator, Belvedere Heights.
2020 levy.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council, and Director of Finance for follow-up.

4.3 – Frank Fernandez, Stop the Great Lakes Nuclear Dump.
OPG’s plan to build a nuclear waste repository in Kincardine abandoned.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council and filed.

4.4.a – North Bay Parry Sound District Health Unit.
Health Unit Preparing for COVID-19.
Action – Filed.

4.4b – Ministry of Health.
Province Implementing Enhanced Measures to Protect Ontarians from COVID-19.
Action – Filed.

4.5 – Chris Litschko, Chief Executive Officer, Lakeland Holding Ltd.
Request for letter of support for CRTC application for rural area high speed internet.
Action – Circulated to Mayor & Council with supporting resolution prepared for consideration.

Deputations
5.1 – Leslie Mapstone – withdrawn.
Film Festival June 4-6, 2020.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – 2019 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members.
Resolution. That the 2019 Statement of Remuneration Paid to Council and Appointed Board Members, attached as Schedule “A”, be accepted.
Carried.  

9.2.1 – 2019 Water System Summary Report.
Resolution 2020. Whereas the Town of Parry Sound owns and operates the Parry Sound Drinking Water System (M.O.E. Designation Number 2200000585) which has been categorized as a “Large Residential” Drinking Water System, and
Whereas Ontario Regulation 170-03 (as amended) under the Safe Drinking Water Act requires, according to “Schedule 22 Summary Reports for Municipalities” that all large Municipal Residential Drinking water systems have a report prepared no later than March 31st of each year addressing the items detailed in the Regulation and is given to the members of Council in the case of a drinking water system owned by a municipality;
Therefore, be it resolved that Council of the Town of Parry Sound hereby acknowledges receipt of the report titled: “Town of Parry Sound Tony Agnello Water Treatment Plant, Large Municipal Residential Drinking Water System Summary Report 2019”, as prepared by Kyle Hall, Manager of Water Systems.
Carried

9.3.1 – Consent Application – B/03/2020 (PS) – Kondwani Corporation.
Resolution. That a decision on Consent Application No. B/03/2020 (PS) (Kondwani Corporation / 58 Emily Street) be supported, subject to conditions of consent that require:
The payment of cash-in-lieu of parkland;
The retained lands be rezoned to recognize the lands do not have frontage and access onto a year-round maintained road, and also that a holding symbol be applied which requires the submission of Record of Site Condition and the evaluation of the landfill site prior to any sensitive use; and
The submission of an environmental impact study supporting the proposed consent application.
Carried

9.4.1 – Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) Grant Application 2021-2024.
Resolution. THAT Council authorizes that application be made to the Canada Arts Presentation Fund (CAPF) for the 2021-2024 Stockey Centre programming season; and
THAT the CAO, Clayton Harris be authorized to execute the application and other relevant documents.
Carried

9.4.2 – Grant Funding Opportunity Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport.
Resolution. WHEREAS on the 21st day of August, 2000 The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and The Corporation of the Township of Seguin entered into an Agreement for the operation, control and management of the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport;
AND WHEREAS The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound and The Corporation of the Township of Seguin hold title to the Airport lands;
AND WHEREAS the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission has prepared applications to FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for funding for a Runway and Airside Business Development Project;
AND WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound and the Township of Seguin as contributing funding partners to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport, in the event there are cost overruns for this project, the Town of Parry Sound (20%) and the Township of Seguin (80%) are obligated to provide financial assistance to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission as required;
THEFEFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT, as owners of the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport lands, the Council of The Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound does hereby support the applications for funding from FedNor and the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund Corporation (NOHFC) for capital improvements at the Airport (Runway and Airside Business Development Project);
AND THAT the Township of Seguin will provide cash flow assistance to the Parry Sound Area Municipal Airport Commission as required for the municipal portion, in the form of a long-term repayable loan of a maximum of 2.5 million, with specific terms of repayment to be determined at a later date;
AND THAT Council approves the Township of Seguin to act as the lead Applicant for the above referenced Project;
AND THAT the Township of Seguin, as lead applicant will establish appropriate measures, project oversight, including status updates to minimize the risk of cost overruns.
Carried

9.5.1 – Lakeland Holding Ltd.
Resolution. Whereas Parry Sound is a significant community in its location on the shores of Georgian Bay running up the Highway 400 North corridor; and
Whereas there are many looking to relocate their permanent and/or seasonal residence and business to this area; and
Whereas providing a quality internet service product to the more underserviced areas of Parry Sound District will make this area that much more attractive to businesses and potential residents alike;
Now Therefore the Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound hereby supports the application by Lakeland Networks to the CRTC Rural Broadband funding initiative to bring quality, cost-effective high-speed internet to our Town and surrounding areas.
Carried

9.5.2 – COVID-19 Ratification of Administrative Actions and Authority Delegation.
Resolution. Whereas the World Health Organization has declared the Coronavirus (COVID-19) as a pandemic; and
Whereas the Province of Ontario has declared a state of emergency today amid the COVID-19 pandemic; and
Whereas federal, provincial and municipal responses to best practice advice on limiting gatherings and social contact, has been to limit access, including close programs, facilities, and offices; and
Whereas the situation is very dynamic and evolving quickly, often requiring immediate action;
Now Therefore, Council of the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound ratifies the administrative actions taken to close municipal facilities and programs effective March 16th, 2020 until further notice including the Bobby Orr Community Centre, the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts, the Bobby Orr Hall of Fame, the Parry Sound Public Library and further;
That the Chief Administrative Officer in consultation with the Mayor and the Community Emergency Management Coordinator (CEMC), is delegated decision-making authority to close municipal facilities, adjust service levels, cancel programs and/or Council meetings; and/or re-instate as the situation evolves; and That the Chief Administrative Officer inform Council at the earliest opportunity.
Carried

By-laws
10.1.1 – MPAC Lease Agreement – Extension.
By-law 2020 – 7022. Being a By-Law to authorize extension of lease agreement with the Municipal Property Assessment Corporation (MPAC) for office space from November 1, 2020 to October 31, 2025.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.1 – Amendment to Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912 for the Town of Parry Sound.
By-law 2020 – 7023
Being a By-law to amend the Parking and Traffic Control By-law 2019-6912.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.2 – Updated agreements with Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood and Gary Kloetstra for on call after hours Municipal Law Enforcement services.
By-law: 2020 – 7024
Being a by-law to enter into an agreement with Chris Everitt, Earl Smallwood and Gary Kloetstra for the provision of on call after hours Municipal Law Enforcement services.
Passed, Signed and Sealed

10.3.3 – New Smoking By-law for the Town of Parry Sound.
By-law 2020 – 7025
Being a By-law to Prohibit Smoking on Town of Parry Sound Property.
Passed, Signed and Sealed
Direction for staff follow-up
That staff investigate and report back to Council on what is possible to control smoking on sidewalks in the downtown area.
Carried

Council Meeting Minutes (Abridged) – May 21, 2019

31 Friday May 2019

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There is not much to comment on with respect to the last council meeting. The highlights and decisions are noted below. 

Closed Meeting

e) Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)

f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-Client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)

Public Meeting

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/05 – W.E.H. Development Phase 2 (W.E.H. Developments Limited). Subsequent to an explanation of how the public was notified of Z/19/05 – W.E.H. Development Phase 2 (W.E.H. Developments Limited), Taylor Elgie, Manager of Building & Planning Services gave an explanation of the purpose of the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment, reporting that the applicant has requested to amend the R2, R2 (h), S.P. 26.49 (h) & S.P. 26.50 (h) zones to:
1. Permit single detached dwellings, semi-detached dwellings, and triplex dwellings (in the form of rowhouses);
2. Reduce the minimum lot frontage for single detached from 15 metres to 12 metres, reduce the minimum lot frontage for semi-detached from 10 metres to 7 metres per unit, and reduce the minimum lot frontage of a three-unit row house to 5.8 metres per unit;
3. Reduce the minimum lot area for a semi-detached dwelling from 300 square metres to 240 square metres per unit, and reduce the minimum lot area for a three-unit row dwelling to 190 square metres per unit;
4.Reduce the minimum interior side yard to 1.3 metres for semi-detached units and end units of three-unit row house units (interior units will be 0 metres);
5.Increase the lot coverage for semi-detached dwellings and three-unit row house units from 30% to 40% (including accessory buildings); and
6.Rezone the rear portions of the lots abutting the ravine/railway to an Open Space buffer zone.
The property is vacant and at the end of Winnifred Avenue, described Lots 21-49 and Blocks 51-54 of 42M648,
No member of the public responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in favour of the proposed zoning by-law amendment.
Al Kinnear of 16 Avery Court responded to the Mayor’s invitation to speak in opposition of the proposed zoning by-law amendment. Mr. Kinnear said that he thought the area would be pretty crowded, especially with 3 row houses, reducing the frontage to 5.8 meters, (only about 16-18′ wide per unit), with parking in front of these units. Mr. Kinnear proposed that the frontage should be 7 meters per unit. Mr. Kinnear also suggested that the frontage should be 14 meters for the single detached and 9 meters for the semi detached. Otherwise Mr. Kinnear reported that he has no qualms about the development; Mr. Hall has shown him the plans and he gives him credit for developing the property.
Mr. Elgie reported that two letters have been received as a result of the zoning by-law amendment notice. One letter is in opposition, alleging that the frontage will not permit enough snow storage. The second letter from CN rail submitted general comments which will be discussed in greater detail in the upcoming report.
Mayor McGarvey concluded the public meeting with notice that public should contact staff or check the Town’s website to see when this amendment will come back for a decision. Council, at its discretion, may approve the proposed Zoning By-law Amendment. If so, it must either circulate notice of passing of the by-law or give notice in the local press. Objections to the passing of the by-law will be received by the Clerk within 20 days from the date such notice is given, which objections will be forwarded to the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal. If an appeal is submitted and the appellant has not provided Council with an oral or written submission before the passing of the by-law, the Local Planning Appeal Tribunal may choose to dismiss the appeal.

Questions of Staff

3.2.1 – In response to Councillor McCann’s inquiry as to how the recent EMS Fundraiser went, Director of Emergency & Protective Services Dave Thompson reported that the fundraiser, with drive thru tolls set up in various area locations over the past weekend went well, with the goal to raise money for public access to and training on the use of defibrillators. Mr. Thompson extended thanks to those volunteers who participated in the fundraiser and those who donated.

3.2.2 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s inquiry of CAO Clayton Harris regarding the implications of the recent announcement from the province on budget cuts, Mr. Harris reported that there is a direct impact of 166,000 to the Town, shared with other municipalities with respect to cuts to Land Ambulance. As the Town’s budget was already set when the provincial announcement was made, Mr. Harris reported that staff is looking at what adjustments need to be made. In addition, Mr. Harris reported that earlier in the year, the provincial grant to the Town of $668,000 was announced, with the accompanying suggestion that municipalities look at modernization, technological advances and collaborate with neighbours to make local government more efficient. In response, Mr. Harris reported that the Town is looking at all its technology projects scheduled for 2019 and beyond with an aim to prioritize them for the biggest financial benefit, with a report scheduled to come back to Council on how to achieve savings. Mr. Harris noted that the indirect implications of the provincial announcement on service delivery such as consolidating health delivery into 10 regional health units likely has greater impact. When this happens, not only the Town, but the community will experience this.
Mr. Harris noted two things in response to these provincial announcements and implications, i.e. that it is fortunate that our Mayor is the President of the Association of Municipalities of Ontario (AMO), with the opportunity for consultation between AMO and the province before certain initiatives are undertaken; and that staff are encouraged to get involved in their respective professional associations to bring forward issues to the province; e.g. the Manager of Taxation is involved in the Ontario Municipal Tax and Revenue Association, which may be consulted on property tax assessment.

3.2.3 – In response to Councillor Borneman’s follow-up inquiry as to what position AMO has taken on the provincial announcements, Mayor McGarvey reported that AMO has been reaching out to the government on numerous occasions, is at Queen’s Park every day and has responded to provincial consultations, such as a new housing plan. The Mayor noted that unfortunately with issues such as land ambulance and public health, the province did not consult, and it is difficult to make suggestions to an initial provincial announcement only that a general review is being undertaken. Mayor McGarvey noted that municipalities are receiving funding at 2017 levels, and it is unknown from recent announcements if municipalities are additionally responsible for First Nations and Unorganized Townships’ costs which have previously been funded by the province.
In response to Mayor McGarvey’s suggestion that the Town might advocate a message to the provincial government that it needs to consult with municipalities, the following motion for direction was made:
THAT a resolution be prepared for the next Council meeting which advocates for meaningful consultation by the province with municipalities on issues which impact municipalities.Carried

Correspondence

4.1 – Tom & Lianne Piddington. Concerns with water pooling on private properties from a plugged culvert ostensibly the Town’s culvert. The concerns documented in this correspondence have previously been forwarded to the Director of Public Works. Any further action is at the direction of Council.
Moved – That the Piddington letter be referred to staff for a report to Council at the June 18th, 2019 meeting. Carried

4.2 – Kyle Boyko on behalf of Inspire Tech Canada Corp. Request for Financial Support to host Future Technology Expos in Parry Sound Referred to the Finance Department to include with other requests to be brought forward at the end of the year, for the 2020 budget process.

4.3 – Township of Essa. Request to support circulation of Essa Public Library’s petition requesting reinstatement of funding to the Ontario Library Service (North and South) agencies to a minimum of 2017-18 funding levels. A resolution related to this issue is on the agenda – item 9.5.1

Deputations

5.1 – Shawna Woods. Concerns with planned removal of anchor from Georgian Bay. Shawna Woods addressed Council with concerns over the planned removal of the anchor belonging to the Atlantic from its Georgian Bay resting place, as reported in the May 8th North Star. Ms. Woods noted that there are already 10 anchors located on grounds in Parry Sound, some without any history chronicling them, and none under proper conservation. As an avid scuba diver and manager of the local dive club, Ms. Woods advocated that the anchor be left where it is in Georgian Bay, and protected as an official dive site, to be a linking dive to the wreck itself. Ms. Woods noted that a dive site like this is a draw for other visiting divers, increasing tourism revenue. Ms. Woods noted that upon naming her objections to the person who located the anchor three years ago, he has reported that if the Town of Parry Sound agrees to leave the anchor alone, he has no objections, and will provide her with the coordinates so it can be registered as a protected historical dive site. Ms. Woods concluded her deputation requesting that the Town leave the Atlantic anchor where it lies and permit it being protected as an official dive site.

5.2 – Renata Purcell, Debra Jones. Strings Across the Sky. Renata Purcell introduced the program Strings Across the Sky, developed initially for Indigenous youth, empowering them to be self confident, proud and instilling a love of music. Ms. Purcell noted that Strings Across the Sky runs a music camp in the summer in Parry Sound, this year starting on July 22nd, and is requesting $2,000 to keep this camp running. Executive and Artistic Director Debra Jones provided further background on the program, noting that it is a registered charity, founded in 1989 by her aunt Andrea Hansen, who had become aware through a tour of the far north, of a 400-year old fiddling heritage there, and was impassioned to rekindle this tradition. Ms. Jones said that more importantly, the program targets at-risk indigenous youth and with its inclusion of non-indigenous youth, builds cross-cultural bridges, empathy and compassion. Ms. Jones described the unique and effective teaching method which has received numerous awards, as well as the social, mental and intellectual benefits of music making. Ms. Jones noted that the one-week summer program came to Parry Sound in 2004 in partnership with the Festival of the Sound and the Parry Sound Friendship Centre, and that as of last year, a weekly program has been developed, located at the HUB. Ms. Jones concluded her deputation with the financial support request, following which 2 members of the program – Eli Martens and Zaria Purcell performed a fiddle and guitar piece.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Approve Signing Authority. Resolution. Whereas the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approved Resolutions 2014-030 and 2014-228 approving signing authority and credit card authority to Members of Council and certain members of staff; and Whereas there are no changes to the position or authority levels at this time; and Whereas there has been a change in the Director of Finance position; Now therefore be it resolved that Resolution 2018-026 be amended to formally remove Kim Chen, Director of Finance/Treasurer as a signing authority; and Further that Stephanie Phillips, Director of Finance/Treasurer be added as a signing authority. Carried

9.2.1 – Cemetery By-law Price List. Direction. That staff be directed to increase the price of Interment Rights only on the Cemetery Price List by 10%. Carried

9.2.2 – Cemetery Truck (08-090) Replacement. Direction. That Council approve staff to single source a new model vehicle for the replacement of the current cemetery vehicle (08-090) after no bids were received through the tender process.
Moved that the direction be postponed until dealers in Town can respond to the question as to why they did not bid. Direction to postpone defeated. The original direction was voted on: Carried

9.3.1 – Fire Department Health and Safety Policies. Resolution. That the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approves the Fire Department Health and Safety Policies attached as Schedule A, And further, that upon the agreement of the Parry Sound Fire Department Joint Health and Safety Committee, the CAO and Fire Chief are authorized to make changes to the policies attached as Schedule A to ensure that they remain current and in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards. Carried

9.4.1 – Appointment of a Designate for the Lakeland Power Shareholder Meeting. Resolution. That Councillor Borneman be appointed as the Mayor’s designate for the purposes of Lakeland Power shareholder meetings. Carried

9.4.2 – Negotiating Team – Seguin-Town Boundary Adjustment. Resolution. That Council appoint the Mayor, Councillor Horne, Councillor McCann and the CAO, Mr. Clayton Harris to the Town’s Negotiating Team regarding Seguin Township-Town of Parry Sound boundary adjustment. Carried

9.5.1 – Township of Essa Petition re: Provincial funding to Libraries. Resolution. WHEREAS the Ontario Library Service North and Southern Ontario Library Service provide the support for interlibrary loans, staff and board training, bulk purchasing, collaborative programming, technological supports, shared electronic book collections and shared catalogue databases; and WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound supports the Essa Public Library Board in their initiative to circulate a petition seeking support for the Ontario Public Library Board in The Corporation of The Town of Parry Sound Council Meeting Minutes May 21, 2019 their request for the reinstatement of funding to the Ontario Library Service (North and South) agencies to, at a minimum, 2017-18 funding levels, in order for these agencies to continue their day-to-day support of Ontario Public Library Services, and to continue to maintain base funding for Ontario Public Libraries; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to the office of MPP Simcoe-Grey Jim Wilson, MPP Parry Sound-Muskoka Norm Miller, AMO, and the initiating municipality – Township of Essa and to Minister of Tourism (friendly amendment). Carried

By-laws

10.1.1 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area. By-law 2019 – 6924. Being a By-law to adopt the estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to strike the tax rate thereon for the year 2019. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.1.2 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2019. By-Law 2019 – 6926. Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2019. Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/3 – 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert). By-law 2019 – 6925. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.2 – Housekeeping – Deem Planning Applications Complete. By-Law 2019 – 6927. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2007-5089 to Delegate Certain Powers and Duties of Council Under the Planning Act (Deem Complete). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.3 – Deeming By-law – W.E.H Phase 2 – Lots 46 – 49. By-law 2019 – 6928. Being a By-law to deem certain lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be part of a registered Plan of Subdivision (W.E.H. – Lots 46 – 49, Winnifred Avenue). Passed, Signed & Sealed

10.3.4 – Appointment Bylaw – Ulysses Gibson – Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. By-law 2019 – 6929. Being a bylaw to appoint Ulysses Gibson as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. Passed, Signed & Sealed

Council Agenda Preview – May 21, 2019

17 Friday May 2019

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Interesting items of the agenda include:

Closed Session e) – Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election. Well, this is a continuing distraction.

2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment (W.E.H. Developments Limited) & 10.3.3– Deeming By-law. This concerns a development at the end of Winnifred Street. The image below may help to better explain where it is. It proposes to include singles to triplexes.

9.4.2 – Negotiating Team – Seguin-Town Boundary Adjustment. It looks as though the discussion is back up for discussion. Let’s see if there is more success this time around.

Closed Session

e) Litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)
f) the receiving of advice that is subject to solicitor-Client privilege, including communications necessary for that purpose. (Claim Against the Municipality Regarding 2018 Election; Town property matter)

Public Meeting
2.1 – Proposed Zoning By-law Amendment – Z/19/05 – W.E.H. Development Phase 2 (W.E.H. Developments Limited)

Correspondence
4.1 – Tom & Lianne Piddington. Concerns with water pooling on properties from Town plugged culvert.
4.2 – Kyle Boyko on behalf of Inspire Tech Canada Corp. Request for Financial Support to host Future Technology Expos in Parry Sound.

Deputations
5.1 – Shawna Woods. Concerns with planned removal of anchor from Georgian Bay.
5.2 – Renata Purcell, Debra Jones. Strings Across the Sky.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff
9.1.1 – Approve Signing Authority. Resolution. Whereas the Council for the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound approved Resolutions 2014-030 and 2014-228 approving signing authority and credit card authority to Members of Council and certain members of staff; and Whereas there are no changes to the position or authority levels at this time; and Whereas there has been a change in the Director of Finance position; Now therefore be it resolved that Resolution 2018-026 be amended to formally remove Kim Chen, Director of Finance/Treasurer as a signing authority; and Further that Stephanie Phillips, Director of Finance/Treasurer be added as a signing authority.
9.2.1 – Cemetery By-law Price List. Direction. That staff be directed to increase the price of Interment Rights only on the Cemetery Price List by 10%.
9.2.2 – Cemetery Truck (08-090) Replacement. Direction. That Council approve staff to single source a new model vehicle for the replacement of the current cemetery vehicle (08-090) after no bids were received through the tender process.
9.3.1 – Fire Department Health and Safety Policies. Resolution. That the Council for the Corporation of the Towns of Parry Sound approves the Fire Department Health and Safety Policies attached as Schedule A, And further, that upon the agreement of the Parry Sound Fire Department Joint Health and Safety Committee, the CAO and Fire Chief are authorized to make changes to the policies attached as Schedule A to ensure that they remain current and in compliance with Occupational Health and Safety standards
9.4.1 – Appointment of a Designate for the Lakeland Power Shareholder Meeting. Resolution. That Councillor ________________ be appointed as the Mayor’s designate for the purposes of Lakeland Power shareholder meetings.
9.4.2 – Negotiating Team – Seguin-Town Boundary Adjustment. Resolution. That Council appoint the Mayor, Councillor _____________, Councillor _____________ and the CAO, Mr. Clayton Harris to the Town’s Negotiating Team regarding Seguin Township-Town of Parry Sound boundary adjustment.
9.5.1 – Township of Essa Petition re: Provincial funding to Libraries. WHEREAS the Ontario Library Service North and Southern Ontario Library Service provide the support for interlibrary loans, staff and board training, bulk purchasing, collaborative programming, technological supports, shared electronic book collections and shared catalogue databases; and WHEREAS the Town of Parry Sound supports the Essa Public Library Board in their initiative to circulate a petition seeking support for the Ontario Public Library Board in their request for the reinstatement of funding to the Ontario Library Service (North and South) agencies to, at a minimum, 2017-18 funding levels, in order for these agencies to continue their day-to-day support of Ontario Public Library Services, and to continue to maintain base funding for Ontario Public Libraries; NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED THAT this resolution be forwarded to the office of MPP Simcoe-Grey Jim Wilson, MPP Parry Sound-Muskoka Norm Miller, AMO, and the initiating municipality – Township of Essa.

By-laws
10.1.1 – Business Improvement Area (BIA) Levy By-law – Downtown Business Area Spokesperson: Rob Beaumont, Manager of Revenue & Taxation. By-law 2019 – 6924. Being a By-law to adopt the estimates of the Board of Management of the Downtown Parry Sound Business Improvement Area and to strike the tax rate thereon for the year 2019.
10.1.2 – Striking tax rates for fiscal year 2019. By-Law 2019 – 6926. Being a bylaw to Strike the Tax Rates for Municipal Purposes for the Year 2019.
10.3.1 – Rezoning Application – Z/19/3 – 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert). By-law 2019 – 6925. Being a By-law to amend By-law No. 2004-4653 (The Zoning By-law), as amended, for 32 Riverdale Road (Laforme/Hubert).
10.3.2 – Housekeeping – Deem Planning Applications Complete. By-Law 2019 – 6927. Being a By-law to amend By-law 2007-5089 to Delegate Certain Powers and Duties of Council Under the Planning Act (Deem Complete).
10.3.3 – Deeming By-law – W.E.H Phase 2 – Lots 46 – 49. By-law 2019 – 6928. Being a By-law to deem certain lots in the Town of Parry Sound not to be part of a registered Plan of Subdivision (W.E.H. – Lots 46 – 49, Winnifred Avenue).
10.3.4 – Appointment Bylaw – Ulysses Gibson – Municipal Law Enforcement Officer. By-law 2019 – 6929. Being a bylaw to appoint Ulysses Gibson as a Municipal Law Enforcement Officer.

Council Agenda Preview – June 5, 2018

04 Monday Jun 2018

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There are a number of items on this week’s Parry Sound Council Meeting Agenda. The full agenda with attachments can be accessed at the Town’s website. Here are a few items that caught my attention followed by a list of the agenda items from this week’s meeting agenda.

Closed Session c)– the Town continues to acquire properties for reasons unknown.

9.1.1– Pumper Truck Purchase for about $550K all in. I guess we need what we need.

9.2.2– Splash Pad. It looks as though any splash pad that is built will be located at Waubuno Beach. This seems to be the right place for it. There was some earlier discussion that the future of any splash pad would be co-located with an aquatic recreation centre. The pad, if constructed, would be located close to the beach in the corner between the parking lot and the road leading to the boat launch.

9.2.3– Lakeland Holdings Share Allocation Adjustment. The Town’s shareholding in Lakeland increases from 13.5% to 15.57% with the new generating plant coming online. And from what I understand the new plant was built on time and on budget.

9.3.1– 2019 Budget Schedule. Things will be delayed a month or so with a new council to be elected in October. The full schedule is available in the meeting agenda package.

On a separate note, the new metal roof on the Stockey Centre looks pretty sharp.

Closed Meeting Agenda Items

  1. c) a proposed or pending acquisition or disposition of land for municipal or local board purposes; (Property Purchase)
  2. e) litigation or potential litigation, including matters before administrative tribunals, affecting the municipality or local board. (Property Matter)
  3. j) educating or training council members and no member shall discuss or deal with any matter in a way that materially advances the business of the Council. (Potential National Event)

Deputations

5.1– Edith Paulus. Backyard flooding since the blasting for the building of the new School on Gibson Street, 2016

5.2– Daryl McMurray, PS Downtown Business Association. Newly adopted Strategic Plan for the Downtown.

5.3– Chris McDonald, Erin Cardy, Sound Splash Pad co-chairs. Update on their progress, current situation, and future goals with regard to the development of a Splash Pad facility at Waubuno Beach in Parry Sound.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1– Recommended Supplier for 2019 Fire Department Pumper Rescue. Resolution. That the Council for the Town of Parry Sound award the purchase of the 2019 Fire Department Pumper Rescue to Dependable Emergency Vehicles in the amount of $522,888.00 +HST inclusive of the trade in value of $27,000 for the current 1998 GMC Rescue and the 2000 Metalfab Pumper; and Further that Council authorize discretionary additional funding of $30,000 for possible additions to the vehicle which may be prudent upon factors identified in the Pre-Build meeting with Dependable Emergency Vehicles.

9.1.2– EMS Paramedic Response Unit. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the EMS Advisory Committee through the approved EMS budget that the Council of the Town of Parry Sound approve the bid from Bayview in the amount of $36,400.00 +taxes for the supply of a 2018 Pickup Truck.

9.2.1– Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame Exterior Building Sign. Resolution. That Council accepts the only proposal received for the Exterior Building Sign Request for Proposals from Sign City Inc., for the Charles W. Stockey Centre & Bobby Orr Hall of Fame in the amount of $3250 + HST.

9.2.2– Splash Pad – Response to request for location. Resolution. That Council designate space at Waubuno Beach for future development of a Splash Pad as identified on Attachment #1.

9.2.3– Lakeland Holdings Share Allocation Adjustment. Resolution. That the Mayor and CAO be authorized to sign the Lakeland Holdings Ltd. Subscription of Common Shares resolution, attached as Schedule “A”.

9.3.1– 2019 Budget Team Schedule. Resolution. That Council hereby approves the 2019 Budgeting Schedule as set out in the attached Schedule “A”.

9.3.2– Purchasing of Budgeting Software Questica. Resolution. That Council authorizes to purchase the budgeting software Questica at approximately $37,000 of one-time cost and $3,000 of annual license and maintenance fee; That Council approves withdrawals from the Tax Rate Stabilization Reserve for the unbudgeted $27,000 to implement the software; and That conditions of the Procurement Policy By-law are waived.

9.4.1– Stone Pillar Gatepost Rebuild – Hillcrest Cemetery. Resolution. That Council award the repair and restoration of two stone pillars at the main entrance of Hillcrest Cemetery to Paul Langford Masonry in the amount of $17,500.00 (Seventeen thousand, five hundred dollars) taxes extra, this being the lowest of two (2) request for quotations received.

9.5.1– Fitness Trail Maintenance. Discussion.

By-laws

10.1.1– Fire Department Establishing and Regulating By-law. By-law 2018 – 6835. A By-law to Establish and Regulate a Fire Department and to repeal Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound By-laws 89-3357 and 93-3617.

10.1.2– Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) – Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive Municipal Services Installation. By-law 2018 – 6830. Being a bylaw to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between property owners along Macklaim Drive and Dennis Drive and the Town of Parry Sound.

10.2.1– G Cash Management Systems Agreement. By-law 2018 – 6836. Being a By-law to enter into an agreement with G Cash Management Systems for the continued placement of an Automated Teller Machine (ATM) at the Charles W. Stockey Centre for the Performing Arts.

Council Agenda Preview – January 16, 2018

15 Monday Jan 2018

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It’s a very light agenda this week. I have nothing to offer in terms of comments. I’ll catch the meeting online. I’m most interested in 5.1, a deputation on the community response to the expanding opioid crisis.

Correspondence

4.1 – Mark Ideson, former resident. Re: Request for a donation to assist with his family traveling to Pyeongchang, Korea as Mr. Ideson is skip for the Canadian Curling Team at the Paralympic Winter Games.

4.2 – Douglas Killingleck. Re: Concerns about parking on Salt Dock Road blocking off the view of residents at Beaconview condominiums while driving out of their driveway.

4.3 – Susan Hrycyna, Executive Administrator on behalf of the Parry Sound DBA Re: Supporting Board resolution regarding the Beautification Committee of the DBA as presented by Brenda Ryan.

4.6 – Ad-Hoc Wellness and Pool Recreational Committee ( a Citizen formed Committee). Re: Request to put a question on the municipal election ballot regarding appointing a Parry Sound Council representative to a Recreational Complex Advisory Committee. (This request was made to all West Parry Sound Area Municipalities).

Deputations

5.1 – Hilary Cutler, Community Health Promoter. Re: The Health Unit is in the initial stages of community mobilization as it relates to opioids. Development of a community drug strategy framework.

Consent Agenda

8.2 – Regulation of Gasoline Prices from Region to Region. Resolution. Whereas gasoline prices continue to vary from region to region in Ontario; and Whereas this has been an ongoing issue for many years in the Parry Sound District; and Whereas numerous letters have been written to the province requesting regulation of gasoline to resolve this issue; Now, therefore be it resolved that Council for the Town of Parry Sound supports the City of North Bay’s Resolution 2017-449, attached as Schedule “A”, which requests that the province consider a Bill to regulate gasoline prices, specifically the “Fairness in Petroleum Products Prince Act, 2017 to be submitted by Gilles Bisson, M.P.P. for Timmins–James Bay; and Further that a copy of this motion be forwarded to the Honourable Premier Kathleen Wynne, the Honourable Glenn Thibeault, Minister of Energy, Leaders of the Opposition, Gilles Bisson, M.P.P., Norm Miller, M.P.P for Parry Sound Muskoka, AMO, FONOM and the West Parry Sound municipalities.

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.2.1 – Freedom of Information Requests. Resolution. That Council approve the enforcement of the legislated fees for Freedom of Information Requests under the Municipal Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act, R.S.O. 1990, c. M.56.

9.2.2 – Lakeland Shareholders Agreement Amendment. Resolution. Whereas the Shareholders entered into an Amended and Restated Shareholders’ Agreement on June 9, 2017 (the “Agreement”); And Whereas the Corporation may engage in the business activities set out in Article 21 of the Agreement; and Whereas the Corporation is considering certain business ventures inside and outside the jurisdiction of Ontario; and Whereas Shareholder approval is required to take certain actions as set out in Article 3.9 of the Agreement; and Whereas all capitalized terms herein not defined have the meaning ascribed to them in the Agreement; Now, Therefore Be It Resolved:

  1. That the Business of the Corporation as outlined in Section 2.1 of the Agreement be amended to include the following, as permitted and authorized business activities: the promotion of electricity conservation and the efficient use of electricity; electricity load management; and the promotion of cleaner energy sources, including alternative energy sources and renewable energy sources.
  2. That the incorporation of a new subsidiary or subsidiaries (“NewCo”) of the Corporation, as determined upon the advice of the Corporation’s legal counsel, be approved.
  3. That the incorporation of such other subsidiaries of NewCo as the Board of Directors of the Corporation deems necessary (acting on the advice of legal counsel) to carry out the Business of the Corporation be approved.
  4. That the entering into of any further agreements as may be necessary, such as but not limited to, a shareholders’ agreement, based upon advice from the Corporation’s legal counsel be approved.
  5. That any corporation incorporated pursuant to this resolution be made a party to the Agreement and bound to the terms therein.

The foregoing resolution is hereby passed by the Shareholders of the Corporation, as evidenced by their signatures hereto.

9.5.1 – Consent Application – B 31/2017 (PS) (Themer) – 60 and 60a Seguin Street. Resolution. That Consent Application No. B 31/2017 (PS) (Themer) – 60 and 60a Seguin Street, be supported subject to the following conditions:
1. Payment for cash-in-lieu of parkland dedication in the amount of $2,677.00.
2. That each of the severed and retained lots have separate and individual water and sewer services.
3. If necessary, an easement will be obtained for any services which traverse over either the severed or retained lot in favour of the other lot.
4. That both lots obtain relief from the Zoning By-law to ensure the newly created lots are compliant.

Council Agenda Preview – December 19, 2017

17 Sunday Dec 2017

Posted by in Parry Sound, Town Council, Urban Development

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The biggest piece of news in this week’s Town of Parry Sound Council Agenda Package is the recommendation of Staff to award the Request for Proposal (RFP) to Greystone for the Salt Dock Road surplus properties (10.4.2). All-in-all the process was very quick, and in my opinion the decision is in the best interests of Parry Sound residents and businesses. I would like to compliment the Town for their relative transparency on the RFP process and the decision parameters regarding their recommendation. It was not so long ago that accessing this type of information required considerable effort on the part of the Public.

Other agenda items worth noting:

9.2.1 – Creation of Hotel Tax – Deferral. The recommendation of the committee is to delay the review process for at least a year to better understand how other, more similarly sized communities, are addressing this issue.

9.4.2 – Warrant Analysis – Downtown Parry Sound. This concerns the possibility of a pedestrian crosswalk on James Street between Mary and Seguin Streets. The Staff recommendation, to defeat the resolution, is that the Town forgo further study of the issue based on an earlier report and the expected expense of an additional study ($65,000). It’s not that far to walk up to Mary or Seguin streets if you are not comfortable crossing the street mid-block without assistance.

9.5.1 – Complimentary Parking Program. It turns out that here are some individuals who regularly abuse the downtown free parking benefit. Staff is recommending that there be directed enforcement targeting those who have been identified as chronic offenders.

10.3.3 – Solar Field Memorandum of Understanding. Town Staff is suggesting that the Town take the next step to allow Lakeland Power to better assess the potential of a solar field project. Any final agreement will be subject to further discussion and review. I’m at a bit of a loss to understand why the Town feels compelled to source their power requirements from a new capital investment. Why not just allocate electricity from the Cascade power plant to the Town’s operations? Let’s keep an eye on this, it can easily turn into a boon dongle even if all parties have the best of intents.

10.4.1 – CP Station Lease Extension – Festival of the Sound. The Town is extending the lease agreement with the Festival of the Sound for one year while it takes the necessary remediation steps to put the property on the market.

There are more notable items on the agenda listed below. As always, refer to the agenda package available at the Town’s website for a full list of the items and the supporting documents. (Good luck finding the document. It’s there, but not easy to find. I don’t know why the Town doesn’t just post a link to the agenda for the upcoming meeting of council under the News and Public Notices menu item at the bottom of the page. It’s a classic example of people designing and managing a website without ever actually using it. The industry suggestion for this type of inconsiderate design is ‘to eat your own dog food’. I think the Town can, and should, do better. The News and Public Notices section would be much more user friendly if it also had a link to the latest draft/final budget as well as the most recent council meeting minutes.)

Closed Session

  1. b) personal matters about an identifiable individual, including municipal or local board employees. (Appointment of Treasurer)
  2. d) labour relations or employee negotiations. (Grievance)

Correspondence

4.1 – Margaret Dunnigan, Parry Sound resident. Reopening the dialogue regarding building a swimming pool for resident of Parry Sound and surrounding areas.

4.2 – Gail Burrows, President, Parry Sound Area Chamber of Commerce. Request for funding, along with McDougall, toward lettering on the North End Water Tower.

Deputations

5.1 – Roger Alexander, Parry Sound Condo Corp #2. Surplus property near Salt Dock Road proposal to purchase a portion of the land offered for sale by the town of Parry Sound based on its “utility valuation”.

5.2 – Brenda Ryan, representing the Downtown Beautification Committee, a Downtown Steering Committee Ad Hoc Committee. Downtown beautification

Resolutions and Direction to Staff

9.1.1 – Goal Plan Update – 4th Quarter. Resolution. That Council approves the December, 2017 Fourth Quarter Goal Plan update, attached as Schedule “A”.

9.2.1 – Creation of Hotel Tax – Deferral. Direction. That Council defer any review of the hotel tax until January 1, 2019 upon the recommendation of the ad-hoc committee.

9.4.1 – West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Regional Economic Development Advisory Committee (REDAC), Council adopt the Terms of Reference for the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative, attached as Schedule “A”; and That the Terms of Reference for the West Parry Sound Economic Development Collaborative be effective upon adoption of all the participating municipalities by no later than January 31, 2018. That Resolution No’s: 2011-137 and 2013-235 be rescinded.

9.4.2 – Warrant Analysis – Downtown Parry Sound. Direction. Resolution. That upon the recommendation of the Downtown Steering Committee, Council direct staff to proceed with the development of Terms of Reference and workplan for a Warrant Analysis to review pedestrian movement in the downtown with a goal of enhancing pedestrian and commercial zones.

9.5.1 – Complimentary Parking Program. Direction. That staff implement the following changes to the complimentary parking program;
• Re-parking enforcement be on a complaint and flagrant abuse basis
• Designated Permit Parking spaces in the Miller St. lot be moved closer to James St
• Clearer identification of Parking Permit spaces throughout downtown be implemented

By-laws

10.2.1 – 2018 Interim Tax Levy. By-law 2017 – 6787. Being a By-Law to provide for an interim tax levy, for the payment of taxes, and for penalty and interest at 1 1/4 percent per month for the 2018 taxation year.

10.3.1 – Amending Agreement for Emily St. Funding. By-law 2017 – 6788. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of an Amending Agreement between Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Ontario, as represented by the Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural Affairs and the Corporation of the Town of Parry Sound regarding the reconstruction of Emily Street.

10.3.2 – Traffic bylaw 2013 -6205 amendment – Carol Court. By-law 2017 – 6789. Being a bylaw to amend Bylaw 2013-6205, as amended, known as the Traffic Bylaw, a bylaw to regulate and control traffic and parking in the Town of Parry Sound.

10.3.3 – Solar Field Memorandum of Understanding. By-law 2017 – 6790. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of a Memorandum of Understanding with Lakeland Holdings Ltd. and AMP Solar Group Inc. for the provision of a partnership in solar fields to offset electrical usage of Town owned facilities.

10.4.1 – CP Station Lease Extension – Festival of the Sound. By-law 2017 – 6791. Being a by-law to authorize the execution of an agreement between the Town of Parry Sound and Festival of the Sound for the rental of the CP Station.

10.4.2 – Declaration of Surplus Lands – Salt Dock Road Properties and award a Request for Proposal. By-law 2017 – 6792. Being a By-law to declare lands fronting onto Salt Dock Road surplus to the Town of Parry Sound.
Resolution. That Council award the proposal from 1793951 Ontario Inc. (Greystone) for the Request for Proposal.
Direction. That a conditional agreement of purchase and sale be prepared between the Town of Parry Sound and 1793951 Ontario Inc. (Greystone) for Council’s consideration.

See you there Tuesday night.

 

 

Parry Sound Budget Meeting Tonight – 2017-12-12

12 Tuesday Dec 2017

Posted by in Budget/Financial, Parry Sound, Town Council

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It starts at 6:00. While the discussion portion will be broadcast, the Town has suggested that the presentation portion will not be available because of technical issues. So, if you plan to watch the session live or later, be sure to download a copy of the budget document to follow along. The Town has a link to the budget at Combined Agenda.

Why bother with following the Town of Parry Sound Annual budget? The short answer is that it lets you know what the Town has planned for the next few years. Nothing gets done without a budget, and this is where the Town lays it all out, for as long as five years in terms of capital investments. For example, there is a tentative capital line entry in 2023 for an Aquatic Centre. There are a thousand stories in the Parry Sound budget and that is only one of them.

Speaking of budgets, did you read the article in the Ottawa Citizen concerning the Blind River debt, about $50 million, related to solar installations? It has a little bit of a parallel in Parry Sound, but with a better outcome. Almost 7 years ago the Town was approached about investing in a solar program on Town property. The suggestion was that the Town could make money by producing power at a lower price than it could sell it back to the Province. The Town was given an option to cover all costs, or co-invest. I attended the council meeting where the presentation was made by a consultant, and read the supporting documents. It seemed like BS to me. Lots of risk and limited payout. The meeting was held in the top of the Children’s Aid building. As the consultant was leaving, I stepped outside and asked him some more questions about the basis of the propsal, probably a little agressively as I smelled BS. I was told to leave him alone by the accompanying Town of Parry Sound Operations staff person. In the end I sent a letter to Town Staff with my thoughts. In their wisdom, Council declined not to go forward with the solar investment. It might have ended up not so different that the Blind River situation.

The Town is once again looking at investing in solar energy. This time by only supplying the land with Lakeland Power making the financial and management investment. There is still is some risk to the Town as a shareholder in Lakeland Power, hopefully it’s minimal and shared with the other investors.